The growing relevance of traditional medicine

Why in the News ?

The article highlights the growing global and domestic relevance of traditional medicine, particularly India’s AYUSH systems, in preventive healthcare, sustainable wellness, and global health outreach. It underscores Ayurveda’s role in addressing lifestyle diseases, climate change, and holistic health.

Background

• Global Practice: According to the WHO, traditional medicine is practised in 88% of its member states (170 out of 194). It is often the primary healthcare source in low- and middle-income countries due to accessibility and affordability.
• Market Size: The Global traditional medicine market is projected to reach $583 billion by 2025, growing at 10–20% annually.
  • China: $122.4 billion (Traditional Chinese Medicine)
  • Australia: $3.97 billion (herbal medicine)
  • India: $43.4 billion (AYUSH)
    

India’s Traditional Medicine Transformation

Industry Growth:

• AYUSH enterprises: over 92,000 MSMEs, 8-fold growth in <10 years
• Manufacturing revenues: ₹21,697 crore (2014–15) → ₹1.37 lakh crore
• Services sector revenue: ₹1.67 lakh crore
• Exports: $1.54 billion to 150+ countries

Awareness & Usage:

• 95% rural, 96% urban awareness (NSS 2022–23)
• Over half the population used AYUSH in the preceding year
• Ayurveda is preferred for rejuvenation and preventive care

Scientific Validation & Global Expansion

• Research Institutions: AI Institute of Ayurveda, Institute of Teaching & Research in Ayurveda, National Institute of Ayurveda, and Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences.
• Focus: clinical validation, drug standardisation, integrative care with modern medicine.
• International Outreach:
  • 25 bilateral agreements, 52 institutional partnerships
  • 43 AYUSH Information Cells in 39 countries
  • 15 academic chairs in foreign universities
  • WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in India
• Technology Integration:
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) supports clinical validation, big data analytics, and predictive care in Ayurveda.

Significance & Contemporary Relevance

• Preventive & Holistic Care: Focuses on balancing body, mind, humans, nature, consumption, and conservation.
• Lifestyle Diseases & Climate Change: Ayurveda provides solutions for non-communicable diseases, mental health, and planetary health.
• Veterinary & Plant Health: Demonstrates a holistic approach to all life forms.
• Ayurveda Day 2025 Theme: “Ayurveda for People & Planet”.

Way Forward

• Global Mainstreaming: Promote traditional medicine as preventive, affordable, inclusive, and sustainable healthcare.
• Scientific & Technological Integration: Expand research, AI applications, and evidence-based validation.
• Economic & Soft Power Potential: Support MSMEs, exports, and international recognition of Ayurveda.
• Holistic Health Approach: Integrate human, animal, and environmental health in policy frameworks.

Conclusion

Ayurveda and traditional medicine systems are no longer limited to domestic or alternative healthcare-they represent a global wellness movement, combining ancient wisdom with modern science. Strengthening and mainstreaming these systems can contribute to sustainable health solutions, combat lifestyle diseases, and support climate-resilient healthcare for the future.

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